If you've ever accidentally deleted an important file on your Windows system, don't panic. Windows provides several methods to recover deleted files, whether you deleted them recently or a while ago. This article will guide you through various techniques to recover your lost data using built-in Windows tools and third-party software.

Method 1: Recovering from Recycle Bin

When you delete a file, it usually goes to the Recycle Bin first. Here's how to restore it:

1. Open Recycle Bin: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Locate the File: Browse through the files and folders to find the one you want to recover.
3. Restore the File: Right-click the file and select "Restore". The file will be restored to its original location.

Method 2: Using File History

File History is a built-in Windows feature that automatically backs up your files. To recover a file using File History:

1. Open File History: Go to Control Panel > System and Security > File History.
2. Restore Personal Files: Click on "Restore personal files" on the left sidebar.
3. Browse for the File: Use the arrows to navigate through different versions of your files and folders.
4. Restore the File: Select the file you want to recover and click the green "Restore" button.

Method 3: Using Previous Versions

Windows also allows you to restore files from previous versions if you have System Protection enabled:

1. Navigate to the Folder: Go to the folder where the deleted file was located.
2. Right-click and Select Properties: Right-click the folder and select "Properties".
3. Previous Versions Tab: Click on the "Previous Versions" tab.
4. Select a Version: Choose a version that contains the file you want to recover.
5. Restore: Click "Restore" to recover the file.

Method 4: Using Command Prompt

If the graphical methods don't work, you can use Command Prompt to recover files. This method is more advanced and requires some knowledge of CMD commands.

1. Open Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to the Drive: Use the cd command to navigate to the drive where the file was located. For example:

   cd D:\

3. Run CHKDSK: Use the chkdsk command to check the disk for errors and recover files:

   chkdsk D: /f

4. Use ATTRIB Command: Sometimes files are hidden. Use the attrib command to unhide them:

   attrib -h -r -s /s /d D:\*.*

Method 5: Using Third-Party Software

If none of the above methods work, you can use third-party recovery software like Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Disk Drill. These tools are specifically designed to recover deleted files and are often more effective than built-in Windows tools.

1. Download and Install: Download and install the recovery software of your choice.
2. Scan for Deleted Files: Open the software and run a scan on the drive where the file was located.
3. Recover the File: Follow the software's instructions to recover the file.

Examples

Example 1: Restoring from Recycle Bin

1. Open Recycle Bin.
2. Locate the file named report.docx.
3. Right-click report.docx and select "Restore".

Example 2: Using Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt.
2. Navigate to the drive:

   cd D:\

3. Run CHKDSK:

   chkdsk D: /f

4. Unhide files:

   attrib -h -r -s /s /d D:\*.*